Is technology helping to improve our health?

New Medibank data shows nearly half of us are using technology to support our health goals. Is it making a difference?

Computers, smartphones and smart watches…technology is constantly changing the way we live, and our health and wellbeing is no exception.

New research* from Medibank reveals 46% of all Australians are now using technology to support their health goals - with wearable devices and apps available to track fitness, diet, sleep and mindfulness.

The younger generation has embraced ‘tech’ for health, with 18 to 34 year olds more likely to use health apps or devices (73%), compared to 43% for 34 to 64 year olds and 18% of those over 65 years.

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According to the data, wearable devices are having a positive impact, with 80% of users noticing improvements in their health and wellbeing since using health technology – more than half of them within a few weeks.

“Health trackers and health apps are great because they help us to set goals and stick to them. They shine a light on achievement, and achievement makes us feel great,” says Medibank’s Olly Bridge.

“The research shows that three quarters of those using apps and wearable technology say they feel more accountable for their health with 57% adjusting their behaviour to increase activity.”

With so many Australians struggling to meet the recommended physical activity guidelines, and eat enough fruit and vegetables, it seems tools to help you track your activity and health goals can only be a good thing.

*The research was conducted by Bastion Latitude, with more than 1,000 Australians, nationally representative on age, gender and location.

While we hope you find this information helpful, please note that it is general in nature. It is not health advice, and is not tailored to meet your individual health needs. You should always consult a trusted health professional before making decisions about your health care. While we have prepared the information carefully, we can’t guarantee that it is accurate, complete or up-to-date. And while we may mention goods or services provided by others, we aren’t specifically endorsing them and can’t accept responsibility for them. For these reasons we are unable to accept responsibility for any loss that may be sustained from acting on this information (subject to applicable consumer guarantees).